Weeds ...

Today I decided to pull some very tall weeds that were encroaching on some of our plants and shrubs. Of course, they were primarily the prickly weeds, you know, the ones you have to wear special gloves to take out or risk poking yourself?

Anyway, as I was pulling them, it occured to me that these weeds were a metaphor on my life, and perhaps yours too.

You see, some of the weeds came out rather easily, root and all. Others, however, gave me a fight.  I had to put all my weight into it, anchor my feet and really pull in order to get them out.

It got me to thinking about the "weeds" in my life; the things that have taken root that I'd really like to get rid of.  Some of my "weeds" are:  judgmentalism for others and myself, perfectionism, low self-esteem, disorganization, etc. What are your weeds? What are the things that have taken root in your life that you'd like to get rid of?

I'm 42 years old. I've been married to my husband for 20 years, and known him for 24. In all our years together, he's done nothing but build me up and make me feel beautiful —inside and out. But, those darn roots of low self-esteem and self-judgmentalism keep cropping up. It feels like I pull them but I never seem to be able to get them by their roots.

Some of the roots I pulled up today were among lavender that we have planted. As I pulled the weeds, I smelled the fragrance of the lavendar; beauty amidst a mess. It reminded me of my life.

Even in the mess of my life, I can see beauty. Even in the darkest days, I can see the light of God.  Even in the worst of circumstances, I know I'm not alone; Jesus is beside me, walking with me.

About half way through the weeding on the side of our house, I decided that maybe my husband needed a little weed "lesson" for himself. So, he'll get to take care of the rest of the weeds outside, while I keep working on the ones "inside."

Have a blessed Memorial Day Weekend, everyone. Let us never forget the sacrifices made for our freedoms.